Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I would like all politicians to be positive this year whether in Government or in Opposition. In this House, we seem to have got into the habit of automatically talking ourselves down. We must look forward to the good things. There are success stories even in the very tough times, just as there are failures in the good times. There are many success stories we might seek to highlight. In that context, let us see if it might be possible to be positive as well as realistic.

I wish to cite an example which came to my attention in recent days. I refer to an advertisement relating to the "Malaysia My Second Home" programme which I saw on television and on which I sought some additional information. Since 2003, the authorities in Malaysia have had a system to encourage people such as wealthy tourists to buy second homes there. As a result of the existence of the programme, some 13,000 people have been encouraged to purchase second homes in that country. There is no cost relating to this programme because those who avail of it are not allowed to work in Malaysia, they obtain ten year visas and must spend a certain amount on money on the homes they purchase.

A large number of homes in this country are not currently in use. I accept that many of these dwellings might not be attractive to wealthy tourists. However, we must look beyond the normal way of doing business and see if we can identify a means by which business might be attracted to Ireland. Encouraging people to buy second homes here is just one example of what we could do in this regard. Many Americans have strong links with Ireland and a large number of them would like to have homes here. If we made the position sufficiently attractive, I am sure they would buy homes in this country. Under the system which obtains in Malaysia, those from abroad who purchase second homes there do not pay duty on their cars, are not allowed to work in the jurisdiction but receive tax benefits in certain areas. This system appears quite attractive.

I spoke to a person from Spain recently who commented that half of all Americans claim Irish descent, while the other half wish they were in a position to do likewise. I do not know whether that is true. However, it is apparent that an opportunity exists in the context of solving our problem with regard to empty houses and providing the construction and tourism industries with a timely boost.

The Cabinet met this morning to discuss the legislation with which it is proposed to deal during the current session. I hope it included in the list the Construction Contracts Bill 2010. I understand the list will be forthcoming later in the day and I am of the view that we will obliged to work on it. There is a positive attitude among Members in respect of doing certain things so let us ensure that such things are done.